Reviews

Dierks Bentley, ‘I Hold On’ – Song Review
Dierks Bentley, ‘I Hold On’ – Song Review
Dierks Bentley, ‘I Hold On’ – Song Review
The familiar shuffle that has held down so many of Dierks Bentley's best songs is back in a brand new way on 'I Hold On,' the new single from the upcoming 'Riser' album. Instead of a locomotive guitar, it's the bass that drives this uptempo track about love, faith and family.
Vince Gill and Paul Franklin, ‘Bakersfield’ – Album Review
Vince Gill and Paul Franklin, ‘Bakersfield’ – Album Review
Vince Gill and Paul Franklin, ‘Bakersfield’ – Album Review
It's almost unfair to call 'Bakersfield' a Vince Gill and Paul Franklin album, because there are so many other skilled musicians who add an important solo, fill or backbeat to the 10-song project. Often when so much talent fills a room, egos bump like elephants at feeding time. But there's space for everyone on this project.
Brad Paisley, ‘I Can’t Change the World’ – Song Review
Brad Paisley, ‘I Can’t Change the World’ – Song Review
Brad Paisley, ‘I Can’t Change the World’ – Song Review
'I Can't Change the World' is Brad Paisley's anthemic ballad from his 'Wheelhouse' album. As a vocalist, he rarely soars like he does on this sonically complex, but lyrically simple love song. His performance as a singer and guitarist actually overshadows the strength of the song.
Brett Eldredge, ‘Bring You Back’ – Album Review
Brett Eldredge, ‘Bring You Back’ – Album Review
Brett Eldredge, ‘Bring You Back’ – Album Review
Buying a full album from a new artist is something like a trust fall. Typically you've heard one or two songs, leaving nine or 10 question marks. Breathe easy putting down cash for 'Bring You Back,' the debut from Brett Eldredge. The Paris, Ill.-born singer will catch you.
Album Spotlight: The Civil Wars, ‘The Civil Wars’ – ToC Critic’s Pick
Album Spotlight: The Civil Wars, ‘The Civil Wars’ – ToC Critic’s Pick
Album Spotlight: The Civil Wars, ‘The Civil Wars’ – ToC Critic’s Pick
The great mystery that sews intrigue at the root of 'The Civil Wars' is how two people who clearly don't get along can pretend with such conviction. The second album from this duo isn't tainted by disdain, contempt or ambivalence that hardens one's heart. In fact, it's more emotional than their Grammy-winning debut album. So clearly they're either brilliant actors, or they're in love.
Randy Travis, ‘Tonight I’m Playin’ Possum’ – ToC Critic’s Pick [Listen]
Randy Travis, ‘Tonight I’m Playin’ Possum’ – ToC Critic’s Pick [Listen]
Randy Travis, ‘Tonight I’m Playin’ Possum’ – ToC Critic’s Pick [Listen]
It's possible the context in which Randy Travis releases his new single 'Tonight I'm Playin' Possum' could cause fans and critics to overstate its impact. Then again, maybe not. There are, after all, only so many words available to heap effusive praise on this brilliantly composed and performed traditional ballad.
Luke Bryan, ‘That’s My Kind of Night’ – Song Review
Luke Bryan, ‘That’s My Kind of Night’ – Song Review
Luke Bryan, ‘That’s My Kind of Night’ – Song Review
Luke Bryan's new single 'That's My Kind of Night' promises to be his most controversial release to date. The singer goes all-in on the country-rap style that -- despite loud objections from traditionalists -- is covering the radio like kudzu. He sounds both horribly out of place and right at home.

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